U.S. Warns Syria Over Security Risks of Chinese Telecom Technology

Alanbatnews -

The United States has cautioned Syria against adopting Chinese telecommunications technology, citing security risks and incompatibility with Washington's interests, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The U.S. State Department has urged Syria to prioritize national security and privacy when making infrastructure purchases, emphasizing the potential risks associated with Chinese technology.

A State Department spokesperson stated that Chinese intelligence and security agencies have the legal authority to compel Chinese citizens and companies to share sensitive data or grant unauthorized access to client systems. The spokesperson added that promises from Chinese companies to protect customer privacy are "completely inconsistent with Chinese laws and established practices."

These concerns were conveyed during a recent meeting between a U.S. State Department team and Syrian Telecommunications Minister Abdel Salam Heikal in San Francisco, though the specific date of the meeting was not disclosed.

The U.S. has been actively encouraging Syria to utilize American or allied-nation technology in its telecommunications sector, according to a U.S. diplomat familiar with the meeting.

Syria's telecommunications infrastructure heavily relies on Chinese technology due to U.S. sanctions imposed on the Syrian government, a consequence of the crackdown on anti-government protests that began in 2011.

Huawei technology, specifically, constitutes over 50% of the infrastructure for Syria's two main telecom operators, Syriatel and MTN, according to a source within one of the companies and documents reviewed.

Syrian officials have indicated that infrastructure development projects are time-sensitive and that Damascus seeks greater diversification in its suppliers. The Syrian Ministry of Communications has stated that any decisions regarding equipment and infrastructure are made in accordance with national technical and security standards, ensuring data protection and service continuity.

One source familiar with the discussions noted that Syria is open to partnerships with American companies. However, export controls and over-compliance remain obstacles.

Another source stated that the U.S. side sought clarification regarding the ministry's plans for Chinese telecommunications equipment. A Syrian businessman also mentioned that Syria is considering purchasing Chinese technology to support telecom towers and the infrastructure of local internet service providers.

China has repeatedly denied allegations of using technology for espionage purposes.

Syria aims to revitalize its telecommunications sector, which has been significantly damaged by years of conflict, by attracting foreign investment.

Saudi Telecom Company (STC), the Kingdom's largest telecom operator, announced an $800 million investment in early February to enhance Syria's telecommunications infrastructure and connect the country regionally and internationally via a fiber optic network spanning over 4,500 kilometers.

Syria faces significant shortcomings in its telecommunications infrastructure, with weak network coverage outside urban centers and slow internet speeds in many areas.